Qiao To Continue Academic and Football Journey at Dalhousie
The pipeline from St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) to Halifax is growing stronger. Gregory Qiao, a Grade 12 student and pillar of the Kerry Blues offensive line, has officially committed to Dalhousie University for the upcoming season.
Qiao will join fellow Kerry Blues teammate, Andrew McGinnis, at Dalhousie and on the field with the Tigers’ roster.
“I chose Dalhousie because I wanted to study a programme that I see myself doing throughout my four years,” says Qiao, who will be entering the bachelor of science (agriculture) programme and specializing in animal science. “I also wanted a place where I can still play football at a competitive level. I love the style of coaching and discipline in the programme, and I’m familiar with their success throughout the past few years.”
A native of the Greater Toronto Area, Qiao started playing football in Grade 10 for the Kerry Blues at centre. He also spent time honing his craft playing with the Toronto Jr. Argonauts. Over his three years playing competitive football, the sport quickly became more than just the action on the field.
“My school football experience was one of the main pillars of my life,” he says. “I was not only able to get in physical shape but also learned time management and discipline on and off the field.”
Those life skills were also developed in Qiao’s academic routines and co-curricular involvement. He has been recognized on the honour roll for four years, has played bass in the jazz and senior concert bands since Grade 9, has competed in shot put with the track and field team, and has been a member of the stage crew for the fall drama and spring musical productions.
“Gregory is a high-character student-athlete who represents everything you want in a programme,” says Dr. Daniel Lumsden ’96, Sr. Kerry Blues coach and community engagement and learning lead. “As one of the top linemen in Toronto, his work ethic and leadership will make an immediate impact at Dalhousie.”
Qiao credits the culture at SMCS for teaching him how to navigate such a diverse schedule while maintaining his grades.
“SMCS prepared me as a student-athlete where I was able to prepare for a variety of upcoming events,” Qiao explains. “I learned to manage my time effectively and create a balance with my academic and co-curricular participation.”
As he prepares to trade the double blue for the Tigers’ black and gold, Qiao arrives in Halifax ready to continue his academic journey and compete for a football programme that has amassed six league championships in the last ten years.
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